Procurement Specialist

Job Posted 12/7/2024
UniUni Logistics
Broadview, IL
United States
Job Description
Description

Who Are We?

UniUni is a Canadian last-mile e-commerce logistics that is one of the fastest growing companies in Canada. As a platform that seamlessly integrates advanced technology with efficient delivery solutions, UniUni enables businesses to provide a superior online shopping experience, ensuring unparalleled efficiency and customer satisfaction. Catering to a diverse range of clients—from emerging e-commerce platforms to established online retailers and brands—UniUni offers exceptional service across North America. Recognized as the fourth fastest-growing company in Canada, UniUni continues to set industry standards, offering a robust, customer-centric approach to e-commerce logistics.

 

What Do We Offer?

At UniUni, we offer exciting opportunities to our employees to achieve their career goals. We believe all roles should develop your skills, broaden your experience, and help you build a rewarding career. If you are ready to join UniUni’s dynamic team, while working hard and having fun doing it, we invite you to apply online and let us know how you can be part of our success story.

 

Position Overview

The Procurement Specialist will be a key player in managing and optimizing relationships with vendors, particularly focusing on securing backhaul loads to improve network efficiency and reduce empty miles. This role requires strong negotiation skills, an analytical mindset, and the ability to develop and execute cost-effective procurement strategies. The ideal candidate will have established connections within the logistics and transportation industry, with experience managing contracts, optimizing routes, and enhancing vendor relationships.



Requirements

Key Responsibilities

  1. Vendor Management
    • Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors, ensuring the best rates and services for backhaul loads and local couriers.
    • Negotiate contracts and ensure vendor performance meets company expectations.
  2. Cost Analysis
    • Conduct detailed cost analyses to identify areas for cost savings and improve profitability through more efficient procurement strategies.
    • Continuously monitor the market for trends and pricing opportunities to reduce costs.
  3. Logistics Planning
    • Assist in planning and coordinating logistics operations to maximize load efficiency and reduce empty miles.
    • Work closely with logistics teams to optimize backhaul processes and improve overall transportation efficiency.
  4. Contract Management
    • Oversee contract management, ensuring that contracts with vendors are favorable and comply with company standards.
    • Collaborate with a carrier relations specialist to manage vendor contracts, ensuring favorable terms, renewals, and compliance.
  5. Risk Management
    • Identify potential risks in procurement and backhaul operations and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
    • Monitor vendor performance and manage any issues or disputes that arise during the contract lifecycle.
  6. Performance Reporting
    • Generate reports on logistics performance, including backhaul efficiency, cost analysis, and vendor performance.
    • Present findings to key stakeholders and provide recommendations for improvement.

 

Requirements

  1. Experience
    • At least 5-7 years of experience in procurement, with a strong focus on logistics and backhaul operations.
    • Established network and active connections with carriers in the transportation or logistics industry.
  2. Skills & Competencies
    • Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of securing favorable terms with vendors.
    • Analytical thinker, with the ability to develop cost-effective procurement strategies.
    • Skilled in financial analysis, including completing financial reports, pricing proposals, and cost-benefit analysis.
  3. Contract Management Expertise
    • Experience managing contracts, including negotiating terms, managing disputes, and ensuring vendors meet contractual obligations.
    • Proven ability to work with multiple stakeholders to ensure contract terms align with business needs and objectives.
  4. Cross-Department Collaboration
    • Experience working collaboratively with other teams (e.g., logistics, finance, operations) to drive procurement strategies and improve efficiency across departments.
    • Ability to communicate the value of strategic sourcing and procurement to internal stakeholders and executives.
  5. Technology Proficiency
    • Experience with key procurement and logistics software, including vendor management systems, financial tools, and data reporting platforms.

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in the transportation and logistics industry, particularly in backhaul and route optimization.
  • Familiarity with contract management systems and tools that facilitate vendor performance tracking.
  • Strong presentation and reporting skills, with experience generating performance reviews for senior management.


Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Training & Development
  • Free Food & Snacks

Pay range: $95,000-$140,000